10 Healthy Summer Recipes to Beat the Heat
Sania TariqThe sun is shining, the birds are singing, and the weather is perfect for a cookout. You're gathered with your friends and family, enjoying the company and the food. But as you're eating, you start to feel a little guilty. You know you should eat healthier, but all the food is so delicious.
Don't worry; you're not alone. We all know that summer is a time for indulgence, but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your health. Many healthy summer recipes are just as delicious as unhealthy ones.
In this blog post, we'll share Ten of our favorite healthy summer recipes, perfect for a cookout. These recipes are easy to make, flavorful, and good for you. So whether you're looking for a light and refreshing salad, a grilled protein dish, or a filling and satisfying burrito, we've got you covered.
10 Healthy Summer Recipes to Try Now, Before Summer Ends
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy healthy, refreshing recipes. Here are 10 of our favorite healthy summer recipes to help you stay calm and energized all season.
1. Lemon-Coconut Energy Bites
These irresistible energy bites are a perfect warm-weather snack and a great way to start your day. They're made with wholesome ingredients like oats, coconut, nuts, lemon, and a sticky binder (usually dates, sometimes honey, or maple syrup) and are naturally sweetened with honey.
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine all of the ingredients.
- Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- Roll the mixture into small balls.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Benefits
- High in fiber and protein: Fiber and protein are both essential nutrients that can help you feel full and satisfied [1]. This can help prevent overeating in the summer and keep your digestive system healthy, especially when sweating.
- Naturally sweetened: These energy bites are sweetened with honey, a natural sweetener lower in sugar than processed sweeteners. Honey also has some health benefits, such as antibacterial and antioxidant properties.
- Omega-3s: The nuts in these energy bites are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, essential fatty acids that your body cannot produce alone. Omega-3s have many health benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving heart health.
- Help you stay hydrated: The lemon in these energy bites helps to keep you hydrated, which is essential in the summer months when you are sweating more.
2. Sriracha Chicken Salad Collard Bites
These wraps are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy chicken salad. The sriracha adds a bit of heat, while the collard leaves add a touch of freshness.
Ingredients
- cooked chicken (shredded)
- mayonnaise
- Greek yogurt
- toasted sesame seed
- lime juice
- honey
- sriracha sauce
- Avocado
- chopped celery
- chopped onion
- salt
- black pepper
- collard leaves, washed and dried
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the chicken and other ingredients.
- Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- Fan a quarter of the sliced avocado in the center of each wrap.
- Top the chicken salad evenly.
- Fold the top and bottom ends of the leaf over the filling, then tightly roll up each wrap burrito-style.
- Slice each wrap in half crosswise at a slight angle before serving.
Benefits
- High in protein: Important for staying active in the summer months.
- Low in calories: These wraps are relatively low, making them a good option for people trying to lose or maintain a healthy weight.
- High in fiber: Fiber is an essential nutrient for keeping your digestive system healthy. Fiber also helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied, which can help to prevent overeating.
- Packed with nutrients: This makes them a healthy and satisfying option for a meal or snack.
- Easy to make: These wraps are easy to make, making them an excellent option for a quick and healthy meal on the go.
3. Fruity Frozen Yogurt Bites
This frozen yogurt bark is a refreshing and easy-to-make treat. It's made with yogurt, fruit, and nuts and is a great way to cool down on a hot day.
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine the yogurt, fruit, and nuts.
- Spread the mixture evenly on the baking sheet.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours.
- Break the bark into pieces and enjoy.
Benefits
- Low in calories. A serving of frozen yogurt bark typically contains around 100 calories, making it a healthier option than ice cream or other frozen desserts.
- High in protein. Helpful if you are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
- Easy to make. Frozen yogurt bark is easy to make, even if you are not a skilled cook. Spread yogurt on a baking sheet, top with your favorite fruits and nuts, and freeze.
- Refreshing and delicious. Frozen yogurt bark is a refreshing and delicious treat for a hot day. It is also a great way to get your daily fruits and nuts.
4. Summer Tomato and Salami Sandwich
This sandwich is simple to make but packed with flavor. The salty salami, creamy cream cheese, and sweet tomato create a delicious and satisfying combination. It's the perfect summer sandwich to enjoy on a hot day.
Ingredients
- One large, ripe tomato, sliced thick
- 2 New York-style bagels, split and cream cheese
- 2 slices Genoa salami
Instructions
- Spread cream cheese on both halves of the bagels.
- Top one-half of each bagel with tomato slices.
- Top with salami slices.
- Sandwich together and enjoy!
Benefits
- The tomato is a good source of vitamins A, C, and k [4], essential for staying healthy during hot weather.
- It's a good source of protein. The salami and cheese in this sandwich are both excellent sources of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue and can help you feel full and satisfied.
- It's a good source of fiber. The tomato in this sandwich is a good source of fiber. Fiber is essential for digestive health and can help you feel full and satisfied.
- It's a good source of vitamins and minerals. Various nutrients found in this sandwich are essential for good health, and they can help boost your immune system and protect your body from disease.
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5. Sweet Summer Berry Popsicles
These berry popsicles are a refreshing and healthy treat. They're made with fresh berries, yogurt, and honey, and they're a great way to cool down on a hot day.
Instructions
- In a blender, combine the berries, yogurt, and honey.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours.
Benefits
- Low in calories and carbohydrates. This makes them a good choice for people trying to lose or maintain a healthy weight.
- Good source of hydration. The water content in the berries and yogurt helps keep you hydrated on a hot day.
- Good source of antioxidants [3]. Antioxidants help protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and lead to disease.
- A refreshing and delicious treat. Berry popsicles are a great way to cool down on a hot day and enjoy a delicious treat.
6. Summertime Pasta Salad
This refreshing and delicious pasta salad is perfect for a summer picnic or potluck. It's made with various colorful vegetables, pasta, and a light dressing. Add chicken or cheese to add some proteins to your pasta salad bowl. The light dressing keeps the salad light and refreshing and helps keep the vegetables from wilting.
Ingredients
- Pasta
- Vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and onions
- Dressing, such as Italian dressing or vinaigrette
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions.
- While the pasta is cooking, chop the vegetables.
- In a large bowl, combine the pasta, vegetables, and dressing.
- Toss to coat.
- Serve chilled.
Benefits
- Provides essential vitamins and minerals
- Good source of carbohydrates for energy
- Light and refreshing
- helps keep vegetables from wilting
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob
This simple and delicious way to enjoy corn on the cob is perfect for a summer barbecue. The corn is grilled to perfection and then topped with butter, salt, and pepper.
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Husk the corn.
- Brush the corn with butter.
- Sprinkle it with salt and pepper.
- Grill for 10-15 minutes or until the corn is cooked through.
- Serve hot.
Benefits
- Fiber: Corn is a good source of fiber, which is essential for digestive health and weight management [2].
- Vitamins: Corn is also a good source of vitamins, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. Vitamin C is essential for immune function and wound healing. Vitamin A is vital for vision, immunity, and skin health. Potassium is essential for heart health and blood pressure regulation.
- Taste: Grilled corn on the cob has a delicious, smoky flavor that is perfect for summer. The butter, salt, and pepper add even more flavor and richness.
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8. Rice Paper Rolls
These fun and easy rolls are a great way to enjoy a variety of fresh ingredients. You can fill them with whatever you like, but some popular options include vegetables, protein, and noodles. The rice paper wrappers are a good source of fiber, and the vegetables and protein add nutrients and flavor. The noodles add bulk and texture to the rolls.
Ingredients
- Rice paper wrappers
- Vegetables, such as carrots, cucumbers, and lettuce
- Protein, such as tofu, chicken, or shrimp
- Noodles, such as rice noodles or soba noodles
- Sauce, such as peanut sauce or soy sauce
Instructions
- Soak the rice paper wrappers in warm water for a few minutes until they are soft and pliable.
- Lay out a rice paper wrapper on a flat surface.
- Add your favorite vegetables, protein, and noodles to the center of the wrapper.
- Roll up the wrapper tightly.
- Cut the roll in half and serve.
Benefits
- They are light and refreshing. The rice paper wrappers and vegetables are a good source of carbohydrates for energy, and the light fillings help to keep the rolls light and refreshing. This makes them an excellent choice for a hot summer day.
- They are a good source of hydration. The water content in the vegetables and rice paper helps to keep you hydrated on a hot day. This is especially important if you are sweating a lot.
- They are a good source of nutrients. The vegetables in rice paper rolls are a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. These nutrients are essential for maintaining good health during the summer, when you may be more likely to become dehydrated or sunburned.
9. Tacos or Burritos
Tacos and burritos are the perfect summer meal. They're light, flavorful, and easy to eat. And with so many different vegan toppings, you can customize your tacos and burritos. Whether you're grilling out in the backyard or packing a picnic for the beach, tacos, and burritos are a great way to enjoy the summer weather.
Ingredients
- Tortillas
- Soya Chunks
- Vegetables, such as tomatoes, lettuce, and onions
- Toppings, such as cheese, sour cream, and salsa
Instructions
- Cook the protein according to your liking.
- Heat the tortillas.
- Fill the tortillas with your favorite protein, vegetables, and toppings.
Benefits
- They are light and refreshing. The rice paper wrappers and vegetables are a good source of carbohydrates for energy, and the light fillings help to keep the rolls light and refreshing. This makes them an excellent choice for a hot summer day.
- The water content in the vegetables helps to keep you hydrated on a hot day. This is especially important if you are sweating a lot.
- The vegetables in rice paper rolls are a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. These nutrients are essential for maintaining good health during the summer, when you may be more likely to become dehydrated or sunburned.
10. Mango and Cucumber Salad
This refreshing summer treat is the perfect way to cool down on a hot day. Made with fresh mangoes, cucumbers, and other ingredients like cilantro, lime juice, honey, and salt, this salad is packed with nutrients and is sure to please.
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the mango, cucumber, and cilantro.
- Whisk together the lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.
Benefits
- Mangoes are a good source of vitamins A and C, essential for eye health and immune function.
- Cucumbers are a good source of water, which is essential for hydration. They also contain potassium, which helps lower your blood pressure in cases of high blood pressure [5].
- The lime juice in the dressing is a good source of vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system.
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Conclusion
So there you have it! Ten healthy summer recipes that are sure to please. Whether you're looking for a light and refreshing meal or a hearty and satisfying one, there's something on this list for everyone.
And the best part is that these recipes are easy to make. So even if you're not skilled, you can still enjoy delicious and healthy meals all summer.
So next time you're looking for a healthy and delicious summer meal, check out one of these recipes. Your taste buds and your waistline will thank you!
FAQs
- Which food is good for body cooling?
Several foods can help cool down the body during hot weather, for example:
- Watermelon: With its high water content, watermelon is hydrating and refreshing.
- Cucumber: Cucumbers are cooling and can be enjoyed in salads or as a snack.
- Yogurt: Cooling and packed with probiotics, yogurt is a healthy choice.
- Mint: Adding mint leaves to beverages or dishes provides a refreshing and cooling sensation.
- Coconut Water: Hydrating and rich in electrolytes, coconut water helps regulate body temperature.
- Is yogurt gut-friendly?
During hot summer weather, it's common to experience indigestion due to increased body temperature. However, consuming gut-friendly foods like yogurt can help alleviate this issue.
- Which food is not heat for the body?
Melons, such as watermelons, are excellent body-cooling foods. With their high water content (approximately 95%), melons help keep your body cool and hydrated during the hot summer months.
References:
[1] https://cdhf.ca/en/protein-and-fibre-managing-appetite-and-staying-fuller-longer/
[2]https://www.health.com/nutrition/health-benefits-of-corn
[3]https://www.wellandgood.com/tea-popsicle-recipe/
[4]https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/tomatoes_provide_many_health_benefits
[5]https://www.cdc.gov/salt/potassium.htm